July 14, 2009

Down On The Farm

The little man and the Crayon strikes again!
I just cant get enough of his works. Yeah I know..."Mr. Proud Parent" also strikes again.
Check out the feature Pig 'gettin jiggy wit it'.
Something about this picture that is unique for the little man. There is no famous "Ayden" signature. Out of many, many pictures this is the first that he hasn't signed in his unique way as part of the picture.
The first thing I asked him was "Why"?
"Well Dad the Teacher told me not to, so I signed it on the back." OK logical, the boy listened to his teacher, but it is one time I wished he would have been more like his ol' man and signed it anyway. Oh well, I love it nonetheless!

Oink, Oink!

June 10, 2009

Pigskin Camp Round 1

Ayden's first football camp was a smashing success! Two days of pure football goodness. It was a relief and very exciting to hear Ayden enjoyed every aspect so far. He got to participate in a various number of mini skill builders and didn't have a single complaint. So far so good.

I was a little disappointed that I didn't get to attend this round of camp due to work, but you can bet I will be there for Round II. Ayden's participation in Mighty Mights will hinge on the outcome of the second round of camp in July. I am more then hoping he continues to enjoy every aspect his football experience. If Mighty Mights becomes a reality in September his father is going to find it hard to contain himself with excitement!

Great Job Son!

June 02, 2009

Sluggers 1-0






Ayden's first coaches pitch game is in the books! The sluggers won by a wide margin and Ayden looked great. As a father who wants nothing more then to see his son do well, there was a little less expectations then normal.

Aydens team was up to bat first. In practice he hasn't had much swing time. The rules of this coaches pitch league is the kids get three swings from the coach pitching and two swings off a tee if needed. Ayden was batting third and I was so excited to see how he would do.

I have played ball with Ayden since he was three. Around that time came the first wiffle ball set. There is not a Dad in the world that doesn't look forward to playing ball with his son/daughter for the first time. I remember right away as soon as he was able to grasp, tossing the ball and seeing if he was able to catch at all, pitching the ball to him to see if he could hit. "Testing" him. Did I mention he was three? I guess I had the expectations that since my son was "perfect", he would come out of the womb swinging a bat, throwing a spiral, and show the hands of greatness. I had very high expectations. Of coarse we had to work on a few things for him to be able to hold a bat, catch a ball, and throw, but I am proud to say Ayden picked up things pretty quick. He seemed to have a great swing for a kid so young. Yes, im biased. Seriously though he seemed to have a great swing. He has a good arm for his age. The swing still needs some work, after all he's just six now, but overall he is showing ability. If Ayden enjoys playing and learns the fundamentals he is going to do just fine.

So Ayden steps up to the plate, coach pitches the ball and BAM....first pitch is hit for a line drive past the the second base into the outfield. I will never forget the feeling. Something so small, so insignificant, was fantastic to actually see happen. It was a sure double but the first base coach held Ayden at first. First official at bat goes for a single and a RBI. The sluggers got their six runs and it was time to switch sides. Daddy is proud!


Ayden was placed in the outfield for the first inning. Not a lot of action and the sluggers got their three outs.

Ayden had to take his three pitches and hit off the tee at his next at bat, but made contact for a line drive at the pitcher position and right in to the glove. No big deal, he showed a great swing and made contact. The coolest thing is Ayden was back on the bench with his helment off and didnt show any sign of it bothering him. From his two basketball stints so far...that is coming a long way. Ayden is VERY competitive. The sluggers once again got the six runs needed and time to switch.

Ayden was placed at first base for the remaining of the game. He made a great catch for the second out. He had three really good plays. I was not only very proud, but a little shocked.

Overall his first game was a smashing success. Ayden showed his athletic ability, showed great sportsmanship, had a blast, and got to enjoy Ice cream after the game. Well done son....well done!

May 21, 2009

Really?

Ayden had his first coaches pitch practice today with his new team. Ive been so excited to get him started and holding out that I would get to help coach the team. Well as if I should be surprised, my plans was foiled.

We arrived at practice and it was a joke. I took off early today to make sure I had him to his first practice early to help him get settled in and meet his team mates. I thought getting there at least 30 mins. early would surly do the trick. Well...no dice. The practice was scheduled to start at 5:30 per the coach. Oh what a work of art the coach is. If I was into drugs, this guy would be my man. I hate judging anyone by the way they look, but this guy is a piece of art.

I digress....we arrived to the field at 5 till 5:00. I had to take out of work early but for Ayden, not a problem. As we roll up we see about a dozen kids on the field. Hey no problem the field is open to other teams, and this was for sure another team wrapping up their scheduled practice. As we was getting our stuff together and heading to the field about three other cars pulled up. Just reinforcing the fact that our team was arriving and this team on the field was not ours. Well....no quite. Turns out Mr. Coach told some people to be there at 4:30. Some others at 5:00 and a few others 5:30. Our team was on the field and had been for about 30 min. What a joke! I have to admit I was just a little pissed. Well as the time wore on it got even better. As I've mentioned our coach is a real work of art. He had no control over getting these kids together, deciding what to do, and well the guy is just not cut out to lead anything but apparently a bong to his mouth. Again Dad is heating up by the minute. Coach couldn't even decide on a time to tell all of the parents.

Well needless to say it took all of about an hour to waste every parents time there. No order, no plan, nothing. It was a sad state of affairs. The whole ordeal was not only disappointing for Ayden, but Dad was beyond pissed by the end of it and highly disappointed that he will not be participating with anything but Aydens cheerleader. Which at the end of the day, is all good. I'm already his biggest fan, why not just sit back and enjoy the train wreak and cheer my son on?

The real kicker with all of this is that the last round of basketball we had to go thru the same type of situation. Our coach was not only showing up to our practices lit up, but to our games having to wear sunglasses to cover up his road map eyes. It's sad that they let these types of people who are supposed to be role models for the kids, with-in a hundred feet of the kids let alone coach them. I will be much more proactive from here on out and take the reins and do a little more research on what I choose to get Ayden involved in. I also plan to get my application in the day they are open to collect for prospective coaches and hopefully not only can I coach his team, but maybe become a coach the kids will not have to worry about having fun with.

The whole situation just blows my mind!
Really?

May 14, 2009

Schedule Set!


Ayden's all set for the rest of spring and all of summer!
And to be honest,
Dad is too!

Today we finalized his football schedule and DAD is PUMPED! I cant wait to see how he is going to take on football. Since I never got to play football as a kid (thanks Mom) and I love the game so much, I am chomping at the bit to see how he will do. I imagine he will love it until that first good hit...then who knows? Hopefully he loves it, but that will be his decision.

So next month starts the whirl wind of sports goodness. First is coaches pitch, then football camp. Followed by another football camp, and if Ayden enjoys them both he will start Mighty Mights in August. Hopefully another round of basketball will follow but that of course will be up to him. Looks like a busy summer ahead!

May 09, 2009

Fishing with the buddies!


Ayden and Max getting ready to enjoy a day of fishing. Max is the son of my closest friend Brent. The age difference between Max and Ayden are the same as their fathers. They seem to have made a special bond already and it's the greatest thing for the four of us to spend time together.


Ayden loves to fish! He is actually much better at it already then I ever was. I think he enjoys it more then I ever did, but I love to watch him. Of coarse he tells me what he's doing to catch the next big fish and I take it all in!



Sheesh...the boys are trying to fish! Brent and I took the time to catch up and the boys was all business.



Brent happens to love fishing and is pretty good at it. It looks like Max is going to follow in the footsteps.



The first catch of the day! Look at that whale! The boys both enjoyed catching a few fish before it was all over. The day was a great success. Nothing better then spending the day with the two sweetest kids on earth all in the company of a great friend. Im sure there will be plenty of fishing in the future for the four of us!

May 08, 2009

He said, She said.....



It's no secret that I am a bit partial when it comes to my son. Parents right. So it would come as no shock for me to think that Ayden is very intelligent for his age and has an imagination worthy of a best selling fiction writer. Ayden is right brain dominate and that is just one of many things he and I share. Studies show that most kids start right brain dominate and as they age the left brain usage increases. I think at times I am so far right that the left becomes the center. Thank goodness it is just the brain. If I was anything else that far "right" I would ask for someone to put me away.

So what's wrong with any of this? Nothing. Lately though I believe his strong right brain dominance creates a active imagination that is causing issues between his Mother and I. Nothing wrong with an imagination. I believe the world would be a better place it everyone had a stronger more active imagination. It seems that Ayden has been "filling in the gaps" at times when it comes to mine and his Mother's actions and words. Ayden is six years old and has already faced some things in his life that has come a bit early for him. Divorce, separate homes, and all that comes with those challenges has in my belief been put on him at a challenging time of his growth. He as adapted as well as any six year could possibly do, but as to be expected regardless of age a few speed bumps are experienced.

The challenge I face is how to approach trying to help Ayden with the facts. There have been a few conversations he and I have had regarding various issues. When a similar topic is discussed with his Mother he tends to bend it a bit. Not all the time. Possibly not anymore then any 6 year old would do. But given our situation of a broken home, two or three misunderstandings and they can turn into a large problem. I only know my side. I can only speculate the other. With me knowing exactly what a conversation between us has been about and what has been discussed his Mother has to make a decision whether what I said was fact or it's Ayden filling in the gaps. It's caused a few heated arguments from both sides. Whatever we can do to prevent another battle between the North and South, is a preference. Just in case you might wonder who is who, I'm the North. No the South will not rise again.

Seriously though Ayden will not always get it right. He is just six. I just want to do what I can to help him realize the importance of doing his best to get it as close as possible. If he is going to tell his Mother something about our conversations it's important that he does the best he can. The same if he chooses to tell me about theirs. A common mutual respect between his Mother and I plays a large role as well. That also is a work in progress. Two years into the current situation and it's strange how much a person forgets what the other is really like. I have been questioned about things that shouldn't have been a question. Completely not who I am or what I am about. Ayden came with the facts as he thought he knew them, but unfortunately not shedding me in the best light with his Mother. Likewise he has told me a few things about his Mother that I had to think long and hard about if they were on the mark. Most of the things was just Ayden filling in the gaps and I regretted asking his Mother about them, after knowing the facts.

A challenge is ahead of us. I don't want to have to spend the next twelve years trying to explain or be explained to. Ayden shouldn't have to worry about anything. I dont want to put this at his feet. This is not his problem, his fault. It's just the position he has been put in. It's a awkward position for him to have to be in, but as with all things Ayden, he will not let me down!

May 05, 2009

Along the path......



It's funny.

I started this blog in hopes of sharing my day to day life with Ayden. My light, my inspiration, my little man that means so much to me. Yet I find it harder and harder everyday to let loose of the things that are happening in my life. I struggle with turning this blog into Thomas' World way too much. I have drama and things happening in my life that I want to write about yet I stop short because this is AydensWorld. A story of me living his world. About him. Not me. Yet it's a struggle. Even though I feel it's a disservice to make this about my personal life outside of Ayden, my behind the scenes life does directly relate to me being Ayden's father and living in his world.

I have so many things that I passed up writing about because I filter those emotions and channel my energy to only write about Ayden directly, but is that really AydensWorld? Is that really living in his world as I intended. Every part of my life evolves around him, so wouldn't it be safe to say that no matter what I write about it would qualify for living in his world? Who cares anyway? This is MY rambling blog, not yours, so why does it even matter? I don't write content for the audience. If one even exists.
I write content for Ayden.

With these ramblings heed this warning. There maybe some changes take place with Aydensworld. I may take this thing to the deep, dark, inner thoughts of Aydens dad and it might get back to being a little dark. A little sad. A little funny. A little different. Who knows? Everyday is something new. No longer will I filter my thoughts and emotions. Maybe, just maybe, with me lifting the muffles, and writing what is on my mind, then this little ditty will be updated more?

I am just wondering down the short path of life wanting to capture my thoughts and feelings with my son being the spot lite. I just want to give him something to read, and understand what a joy it is to be his Father. The biggest fan Ayden could ever have in his life, writing about his experiences.

I have skipped so many things to write about because of my state of mind. Ive skipped certain events, holidays and special times with Ayden. Christmas this past year was completely passed over even though this was my year with Ayden. We had a great time, but with the great time came some really dark, disturbing thoughts. So it was skipped. Censored.

I never wanted him to read this project and really see that his old man was kind of a eccentric. A loner. A sometimes depressive mind that has all of these struggles with being the best father he can be and keep his own train on the track through the sometimes rocky road of his own life. Like every great story, mine has it's share of mistakes, dark thoughts, and disappointment.
Isn't a censored thought a lost thought?

What is this little project if it's not truly the uncensored, unbridled thoughts of the person creating it? The whole thing becomes stale and inaccurate and misses the point with it's intent. I live in Aydensworld, and it's truly a blessing. With every joy comes every challenge and doubt. Every disappointment and shortcoming. Without the pain, the joy would not be recognized.

Why the pressure?

April 19, 2009

Rock N Ribs 09'

Rock N Ribs was a success this year despite the weather. Ayden and I had a great time sampling the BBQ, goofing off and getting soaked. The picture above was taken by a guy at the Springfield News-Leader. He had asked for Ayden's information and that if it would be OK if it was in the paper. I was pretty excited thinking it would make the Sunday paper. Well it did make the website ( http://tinyurl.com/d3o7vf ) but not the paper. Oh well, the day was a lot of fun and by the end of it Ayden and I were soaked to the bone! I am proud to say that he did make it over this HUGE puddle above. It's funny because from the looks of it, he's a little short. I guess that's why they say never believe what you hear and only half of what you see. Ayden managed to also splash the guy taking the photo so maybe that played a role in getting snubbed for the paper. A little rebel.

I found out Ayden has a real love for BBQ. The kid ate twice his weight consisting of pulled pork and beef brisque. He said he was still hungry once we started getting drenched and had to leave. It's exciting to know his love of BBQ since I also love it! It means he's ready for Chief games and helping the old man out fixing BBQ in the future. Just another thing I look forward to sharing with him.

April 12, 2009

Happy Easter 2009


Happy Easter!
This year I don't get Ayden for Easter and I already look forward to next year! It's strange how holidays without Ayden is just a dreaded event. They used to be so important to me and some of the happiest times in my life was spending the holidays with my son. I do have next year to look forward to but sometimes 'next year' seems so far away.
I was blessed with a phone call this morning from Ayden. He wanted to know if the Easter Bunny had payed a visit to me. I laughed and said "well....not really but Im sure he was busy." Ayden then proceeded in telling me that the Easter Bunny had visited him and left him a few items. After hanging up I couldnt help but think about how if the 'Easter Bunny' did pay a visit to me he would most likely resemble the bunny in the picture above.
(I found this picture with a general search...thanks Google Images, and thanks to the creative artist for his/her creation.)
Mr. Bunny would most likely remind me that I need to quit feeling sorry for myself, and enjoy the holiday for what it is. It's hard sometimes to look past my own feelings. I need to be happy that Ayden has a home and a Mother and Father that love him dearly. No I dont get to see Ayden today but he is on my mind and I am thankful that he is happy and loved. I know that next year Mr. Bunny will visit us in my home and hopefully not be so serious....

April 11, 2009

Painting


Ayden has shown a real interest in painting. Being his father I am proud to say that he has also shown talent in his art. Being artistic and showing a appreciation for the arts is something that I can share with Ayden. I was always wanting to take more time being artistic whether it be drawing, painting, photography, website design, or my true love of music. I have a feeling that a few hours will be shared with Ayden painting and enjoying what seems to be a shared love of the arts.

April 04, 2009

First Ride of Spring



The first bike ride of spring was a success. We both enjoyed a rather adventurous bike ride today. I had forgotten how much fun it was to take a carefree ride. I used to ride on a pretty regular basis, but after the last two years of events I had gotten away from it. I was so excited to get Ayden a bike so we could share in the fun that I remember riding to be. Although Ayden can ride his new bike that I got him for his Birthday, it still makes me a little nervous to go on a ride of much length. It's still just a bit big for him. His Mother was kind enough to let us borrow the bike he has at her house.

The ride started off with us going full speed down a trail that is close to my house. This full speed was quickly replaced with sort of a mid tempo after Ayden decided that he was getting tired. All I could think was how out of shape I have gotten and how a slower pace would be a much welcomed event. We ended up breaking beside a creek that runs through the trail. We spent awhile sitting, tossing rocks in the water and talking. Ayden begged for me to show him how to skip a rock across the water. The rest of the time spent "resting" I taught Ayden how to skip and by the time it was time to get back on the trail he was skipping rocks pretty well. Much success!

Overall we had a blast. After our break, Dad caught his second wind and was ready to go. Ayden started pooping out after a period of time so we headed home. It was a great ride and another great memory living in Aydensworld!

March 28, 2009

Birthday Success No. 6

Aydens 6th Birthday Party



Ayden enjoyed many gifts and everyones favorite gift CASH!






The image above is my favorite of the night.


Mr. Center Of Attention!


Ayden went with the Star Wars cake this year. I cant help but think it was due in large part to the many hours of Lego Star Wars time we have put in lately.

Overall it was a great evening. Ayden had six of his school mates and a few family members in attendance. Once again Ayden decided to have his party at Chuck-E-Cheese which kind of came as a surprise this year. We had attended a earlier birthday party of one of his pals at a local rock climbing business. He loved it! At the time he mentioned that he would love to have his birthday party at the same place, but as with all 5 year olds he had a change of heart come birthday time.




Ayden's New Ride
I almost purchased his bike for Christmas this past year and decided that he would enjoy it more come spring. He had out grown his "Harley" bike and it was time to move up. I had mixed emotions with going with a 20" bike so soon but within minutes of giving Ayden his new bike he was off and loving it. I feel I made the right decision knowing that he will have it for some time to come with plenty of room to grow. My little man is riding a big boy bike now!





March 26, 2009

Happy Birthday Ayden!

Happy Sixth Birthday Son!


Posted with LifeCast


March 25, 2009

How time flies....



My youngest memory that clearly can be recalled is getting on the school bus my kindergarten year. I remember being both excited and very scared. A new adventure that meant getting out of the house, but also something I had no idea what to expect. I attended pre-school so I remember thinking that it couldn't be much different, but on the same hand everyone kept telling me how I was going to be a "big boy" now.

Looking back at old photos I would run across a picture that Mom had taken that day. It would take me right back to the big day! As I grow older I often wonder if I remember this day so clearly because of that photo? I often think about how lucky Ayden and his generation are to always have a camera on them, footage of a video camera, the wonderful great internet! So many things to capture their thoughts and feelings. An endless treasure chest to go to recall the memories.

I cant believe that Ayden will be six years old tomorrow. Time is flying by and every chance I get I try to take in just how fast he is growing on me. We have been thru a lot in his first 6 years. So many changes have taken place in our lives since he has been born that it makes me wonder what's ahead. A few things are certain. There will never be a shortage of pictures or video of him if I can help it, he will always be the one that will be able to strike a smile across my face regardless of the circumstances, and last but not least, he will always have a Father that loves him more than anything!

I Love You Son!

March 24, 2009

March 10, 2009

Click...click...CLICK!


ringgggggg.......
ringggggg........
"Hello"
"Dad....Guess what?"
Smiling always happy hear the little mans voice.
"Hey Dude...What are you doing?"
"You want to hear something? Listen to this"
A few moments of silence are pierced by a light
"click...click"
Straining not really sure what Im hearing I ask,
"Ayden?"
"Yeah...Did you hear it? Isn't that cool?"
"Son...What are you doing?"
"Uhh listen Dad!!"
Showing a bit of frustration in his voice.
Suddenly hearing two little fingers snapping together,
I believe I have an understanding of what he's doing.
"I can CLICK!"
Ayden exclaims.
After containing myself from a fit of laughter, the father "Mr. Buzzkill" comes out.
"Ayden, you can snap! That's snapping!"

I asked Ayden where he had learned such a skill. He proceeded to tell me
"well I've seen you and mommy do it and I just started doing it at school today."

"And Dad I done it all day today, I couldn't stop!"

It's just another day living in Ayden's world and there's no other place I would rather be!

Thank You God!


March 08, 2009

Spring Forward!


Moving the clock up can only mean one thing....
Spring is just around the corner!
Thank God!
This winter season has worn it's welcome and thankfully has taken the hint and will be leaving soon. So with the exit of winter and the enter of spring I am filled with a desire to get out and enjoy the sunshine. It's time to start planning out what Ayden and I are going to be doing to enjoy said sunshine. 
Swimming, bike riding, camping, fishing and many many hours of park time! 
I look forward to another eventful summer with the little man.

February 04, 2009

Fun In The Sun.....


Spring could not get here soon enough!! I am so tired of the cold and dreary. Ayden and I have almost wore out Star Wars and Madden on the Wii. He keeps begging for me to buy Indiana Jones and I am holding out on him...So the warm weather better hurry up and get here. We have some fun in the sun to take care of and lay the wii down for awhile. I hear it's supposed to be warm this weekend and we are taking up all of Saturday with his Basketball game, Rock Climbing B-day party and a MSU game.....Sheesh great planning on my part, they are all indoors!
Duh!
Well I have a feeling it's going to be "Park Sunday"!
Spring...... hurry please!

February 03, 2009

Lessons taught, lessons learned

It's amazing how much Ayden teaches me something I either have forgotten along this twisting road of life, or simply have never learned.
Being the father I yearn to be, doesn't always mean I am in the drivers seat on teaching life's great lessons. Ayden teaches me daily the fullfillment of love, forgiveness, honesty and unfiltered excitement!
Ayden is very emotional driven. This is a double edged sword at times but what it brings in hurt feelings, it doubles in the way he is able to express his love. The hugs, kisses, and pats on the back telling me " It's OK " come regularly.
Not remembering to pack his snack for his lunch when I only have to remember one day a week drives me insane. I always feel horrible, but to Ayden it's another chance to tell his Dad "that's alright, you'll remember next time!"
He's only five shouldn't he be throwing a fit?

January 28, 2009

Mr. Innocent

January 27, 2009

January 26, 2009

Time keeps on slippin..slippin...into the

It's been so long since I have had the piece of mind to sit down and post. I have missed posting so many stories and events in our lives and once again am short on excuses. Thanksgiving, Christmas, the New Year celebrations all have been missed on the blog but will have to be revisited at some point. I have pictures galore just waiting to be posted. So as I stare at the calendar and get that dreaded ache in my stomach from getting away from the things I love I realize that time keeps on slippin and I need to get back to it.
My Little Rock Star